Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in Pennsylvania

Buying a home that is occupied by a tenant.

I have purchased a home that is occupied by a tenant. He did not have a written agreement with the previous landlord. I would like to renovate the property. By law how long am I required to give him to vacate the premises? Am I responsible for any security deposit that he may have paid to the previous landlord? Am I responsible for any bodily injuries that may occur during the time of occupancy? Do I just need to serve hime with a 30 day notice to vacate?


Asked on 2/02/07, 9:19 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Matthew Kelly Kelly Law

Re: Buying a home that is occupied by a tenant.

I would do one of two things. One, immediatley serve him via certified mail with a notice to vacate. You will have to allow him 30 days as he is more than likely a month to month tenant. Oral leases can be enforceable, but are difficult. How long has he been there? What to seller disclose to you?

Yes, you will be responsible for the return of his security deposit - if there is one, it should have been given to you at settlement.

Yes you will be responsible for anything that happens. You should purchase a commercial liability insurance policy - talk to your agent about the fact that you have a tenant.

SEcondly, if you are going to renovate the property, if he won't be in the way and doesn't mind, you may think about putting him under a lease or license (talk to an attorney about the license concept) and generating some cash for yourself.

Good luck. Feel free to contact me with additional questions.

Read more
Answered on 2/02/07, 9:31 am


Related Questions & Answers

More Landlord & Tenants questions and answers in Pennsylvania